In 2266, Balok encountered the FederationstarshipUSS Enterprise entering the borders of the First Federation. Unsure of how to react to the strange vessel, Balok sent out a cube-shaped warning buoy to scare the Enterprise away. However, when the Enterprise destroyed the buoy, Balok took the Fesarius to intercept them. Wanting to appear more threatening, he communicated with CaptainJames T. Kirk using a fearsome looking dummy. He wanted to know if the human crew were hostile, so he tested them, by first threatening to destroy them, and then testing their compassion.

Fortunately, Captain Kirk and his crew were a compassionate people, and Balok invited a small team aboard the Fesarius. Balok was most impressed with the human crew, and gave them a tour of a First Federation base. As part of a cultural exchange, LieutenantDavid Bailey was to remain behind with Balok. (TOSepisode: "The Corbomite Maneuver", TOSnovel: Preserver)